Michigan law: Drivers must slow by 10 mph to pass emergency vehicles

Michigan drivers will now be required to slow down by 10 mph when passing an emergency vehicle. Photo courtesy Highway Patrol Images / CC BY 2.0

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan drivers will be required to slow down when passing an emergency, maintenance or utility vehicle that is on the side of the road.

A law signed Thursday by Gov. Rick Snyder mandates that motorists slow by 10 mph below the posted speed limit and, if possible, move over a lane when passing a police or emergency vehicle on the side of the road.

The law takes effect in mid-February and replaces a current requirement that drivers proceed with caution and move over when passing such vehicles.

Violators will be subject to a $400 fine.

Snyder says the law will better protect emergency responders and workers on busy roadways. He says he hopes more Michiganders "will slow down and give a lane."

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